McLaren boss Martin Whitmarsh has said he is confident Lewis Hamilton will remain with the team for a long time to come, despite persistent rumors leading into the season the former world champion was looking to move on. The speculation was fueled by the lack of a contract tying Hamilton to the team beyond the end of 2012.

"Lewis has a long career ahead of him and I think he's intelligent enough to realize that the environment he has here is good for him and plays to his strengths," Whitmarsh said.

"Lewis has made it clear to me he wants to stay in the team and I've made it clear to him I want him to stay.

"At some point, we need to get a contractual agreement that reflects that, of course. But I don't think, despite the media interest, that either of us thinks we have to get to a contract in three months or six months. I trust him and I think he trusts me.

"We are focused on winning the championship this year, next year, in five years and 10 years' time, as motor-racing is our core business. Ferrari can also say that with some credibility.

"But a lot of other teams are selling consumer goods, cars or high-caffeine drinks. I'm not criticizing them. But can they say, consequently, that they are in Formula One for the long run?"

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